Unthirsty Plants For Sale Aug. 2

For readers looking to save water and expand their gardens, the Unthirsty Plant Sale will offer more than a dozen less-thirsty and drought-tolerant plants from nurseries islandwide.

Running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at Halawa Xeriscape Garden at 99-1268 Iwaena St., the sale also marks the garden’s first quarter century and will help fund its educational programs.

“For 25 years, Halawa Xeriscape Garden has served as a gathering place for the community to learn how to achieve a more sustainable future through water conservation,” stated Mayor Kirk Caldwell. “This year’s event celebrates a special occasion that will be enjoyed by all in attendance.”

Board of Water Supply chairman Duane Miyashiro called the anniversary “a significant milestone,” adding that “I hope the community will join us in celebrating this achievement.

“It is estimated that xeriscaping can reduce outdoor water use anywhere from 30 to 80 percent. Event activities will show it is possible to have beautiful green gardens, while remaining water efficient.”

The Royal Hawaiian Band and Jerry Santos of Olomana will entertain, along with games and gardening for the children, educational exhibits, food and a mulch giveaway.

A ceremony will honor individuals who helped create the garden, as well as volunteers who continue to be integral to its operation — among the honorees are Kazu Hayashida, Mahealani Cypher, Wayne Sasaki, Alice Kadowaki, Fusae Kiyokawa, Elsie Nakasone and the late Betty Crocker.